Liverpool will be without Diogo Jota for their crucial Premier League clash against Arsenal this Sunday.
The Portugal striker is still recovering from a rib injury sustained during last weekend’s match against Chelsea.
Jota missed the midweek trip to RB Leipzig in the Champions League, where Darwin Nunez stepped up to score the only goal of the game in his absence.
Nunez is expected to retain his spot in the lineup, with Luis Diaz vying for a starting position on the left flank, potentially pushing Cody Gakpo to the bench.
In his pre-match press conference, manager Arne Slot confirmed that Jota would not participate in training today.
Additionally, Conor Bradley and Federico Chiesa are also anticipated to miss this weekend’s match.
“They feel good but not when it comes to playing for us on the weekend,” Slot said.
“Federico might train at the weekend; Diogo definitely not. Conor Bradley, let’s see if he can be with us tomorrow.”
Regardless of their fitness levels, it is highly unlikely that Chiesa and Bradley will start against Arsenal.
Liverpool are not expected to take any risks with players currently sidelined, but at least two of the trio appear to be nearing a return.
Additionally, Alisson Becker and Harvey Elliott are also unavailable at the moment.
On Alisson, Slot said: “He is progressing well like we expect.
“But it’s not a short-term recovery. It’s always difficult to judge him.
“He’s not at the last stage of his rehab.”
“Not sure how long he’ll be out but don’t expect him to be in against Brighton in next two games.”
The Dutchman may make changes for the trip to Arsenal, with Curtis Jones and Luis Diaz among the candidates for a starting position.
Jones, who scored the decisive goal against Chelsea, could take the place of either Dominik Szoboszlai or Alexis Mac Allister.
Meanwhile, Diaz is expected to step in for Cody Gakpo.
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